i need a diagnosis!?

Eczema is a combination of: Dryness of the skin. Inflammation. Increased risk of skin infections. Infections can in turn lead to more inflammation. Each are interlinked. Normal skin is more like lycra - it can be stretched in any direction without problem. Eczema skin is more like sandpaper, when it moves it cracks, which leads to itching and inflammation. These cracks are where bacteria can get a hold and cause infection. the most common one is known as staphylococcus aureus, It is the moisturisers that are key to keeping the skin moist and supple so it does not dry out and crack. As a rule ointments are like Vaseline and creams are white and both are used as moisturisers for skin conditions. It is down to the individual which they prefer, but sufferers of skin conditions are more likely to use a topical treatment that they like than one that they do not like. Traditionally dermatologists believe that ointments are better moisturisers than creams though there is no evidence for this. Things to keep in mind when deciding between the two are: Ointments do not soak in as creams do and can damage clothes. Ointments prevent sweating and can make a person feel hot after application. Ointments do not have the initial cooling action that creams do - it is the evaporation of the water in creams that causes this. Some people prefer ointments to creams and so should be encouraged to use them. You need the same amount of ointment to cover the skin as you do a cream. Bathing can reduce the dry scales and any crusts from the skin. However, water by itself is drying as it can take oils out of the skin. If a bath oil is used for bathing this can help to moisturise the skin. Use according to manufacturers instructions. Do not put more than is necessary in as sometimes they can irritate - particularly if they have an antiseptic in. Never use soaps to bathe - soap substitutes can be used instead. After bathing pat the skin dry. Moisturisers can be applied afterwards to keep more moisture in the skin. In all cases when more detailed medical information is required, you would be advised to consult a doctor or dermatologist. Especially as you state that diabetes is in the family. Problems similar to those that you describe can be related to diabetes also. I add a link with details of this subject and one for diabetis. http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/ skin_hair/eczema_treatment_ 003760.htm http://riri.essortment.com/ symptomsdiabet_rkvg.htm Hope this helps matador 89

Hi Sweetie, Sure sounds like it & that's what we try to avoid at the GYM & pool area, nothing againgst U, but people may avoid the obvious when they see R feet so, Please go & have it properley diagnosed, & get the Med's required to avoid embarressment. It's usually the ones with "pretty feet" that end up with Athlete's Foot. Now U should try & remember When & Where U got it!!!! Public Pool, Pool Party, etc. All My Best Sweetie, in getting rid of it, I Know U Can, but not the length of time? Soon I hope! Sooner U see Dr., the Better. LOL, Diana D

You should definitely see a doctor. Make an appointment with your primary care physician and see what he/she says. They may refer you to a podiatrist for further treatment. They'll be able to diagnose you better than anybody here on yahoo answers. Hope this helps. :-)

They could be blisters/corns/callouses or maybe even foot ulcers that are a sign of diabetes.